Sussex has its fair share of stunning beaches, but this spot is said to rival one of the most iconic in the US.
West Wittering is a village on the Manhood Peninsula in the Chichester district of West Sussex, near the mouth of Chichester Harbour.
A lovely coastal village, home to names such as Michael Ball and Kate Winslet, but it is its beach that earns plenty of praise.
Here is all you need to know about it and why it is worth a visit this summer.
All to know about West Wittering Beach in Sussex
West Wittering Beach is said to be the “perfect destination for relaxation, recreation, and unspoiled natural views”, its website says.
It is described as a “stunning, award-winning stretch of coastline” that is “renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and commitment to conservation”.
The beach is Blue Flag recognised for its water quality, high safety standards, and sustainable environment.
Visit South East England says that the beach “offers wonderful views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs beyond”.
It adds: “The natural and unspoilt sandy beach of West Wittering has been a favourite destination for a family day out for generations.
“Escape to this idyllic destination for an early summer retreat and immerse yourself in the beauty that surrounds you.”
West Wittering Beach is known to get very busy in the summer, with new rules limiting access for large vehicles, beginning from May this year.
A post shared by West Wittering Beach (@westwitteringbeach)
Coach visits will no longer be permitted between May and August inclusive under the new rules, and will also be restricted on weekends and Bank Holidays.
School coaches will be exempt, and limited exceptions may also be considered for organised and supervised groups, where visits can be managed appropriately.
The new rules follow a recent review of coach visits and peak-time pressures by the West Wittering Estate, which is responsible for managing the beach.
A spokesperson said: “West Wittering Beach is a natural, family-friendly environment, and during busy periods our priority is to make sure everyone can enjoy the beach safely, comfortably and respectfully.”
West Wittering Beach is said to rival The Hamptons in USA
The beach was recently compared to the stunning Hamptons in the US by Conde Nast Traveller (CNT).
Writer Emma Clarke said that West Wittering is a “beautiful sandy beach” that could “rival Cape Cod, The Hamptons, or pretty much any New England coastal spot in the US”.
The Hamptons can be found on Long Island and are a popular summer destination for New York City residents.
The Hamptons in the US are a hugely popular coastal area (Image: Getty Images)
They are said to offer “timeless appeal”, with “stunning coastlines, premier beaches and grand estates”, according to Discover Long Island.
Ms Clarke said that the “golden expanse” of West Wittering that stretches some 1,000 metres makes for the “perfect weekend escape or day trip”.
She continued: “But it’s not just for sun-seekers and bathers, though.
“West Wittering beach is a renowned bird-watching destination, and just along the way, at East Head, the sand dunes are home to a wide range of wildlife and vegetation.
“If you’re lucky, you may spot dark-bellied brent geese, who have come all the way from Arctic Siberia, or hear the distinctive calls of curlews, redshanks and oystercatchers.
Recommended reading:
2 Sussex beaches branded ‘no-go’ for swimming this spring due to ‘poor’ water quality
‘Stunning’ Sussex spot with ‘unspoilt’ views named among best dog-friendly beaches
World’s longest coastal path fully opens to the public and it goes through Sussex
“At any rate, you’ll surely see a large flock of sanderlings: small, white, fluffy wading birds with greyish, downy feathers and a black bill.
“What’s more, this dog-friendly beach is also a hub for surfers and watersports fanatics.
“Owing to its location, West Wittering can get some pretty impressive waves and offshore winds – though visitors should be mindful to stay within the marked zones.”
What is your favourite beach to visit in Sussex? Let us know in the comments.